Spanx

Spanx is a line of women's shapewear made of nylon and lycra. Spanx started out from Sara Blakely's apartment in 1998 and grew in popularity becoming a favorite of many celebrities.

Fast Facts

1. Developed by: Sara Blakely
2. Common uses: Shaping,smoothing and supporting the body
3. Made from: nylon and lycra
4. Price range: $26-$72
5. Founded: 2000

Founding

In 1998, Sara Blakely would cut off the feet from her pantyhose to use as a smoothing and support garment worn underneath clothing. Oprah Winfrey was a big part of Blakely's inspiration. When Oprah mentioned that she cuts off the bottoms of her pantyhose, Blackely decided to begin a shapewear business. In the same year she got a patent for footless pantyhose.

By 2000, Blakely began production and made her first sale to Neiman Marcus. Popularity soon followed. In the same year, Sara Blakely and Spanx were featured on the The Oprah Winfrey Show. Spanx became very popular with celebrities.

Buying Guide

All shapewear is designed to smooth out and support trouble areas on the body. Shapewear should be chosen based on body type. Always choose the correct size as sizes that are too small may cause significant discomfort and limit circulation.

For wide hips, look for a supportive material shapewear that minimizes the hips, thighs and rear.

A full body shapewear, that continues from hips to bust, will smooth out stomach rolls or other mid section bulges. When stomach bulge is a problem, other shapewear will often give a split look rather than smoothing everything evenly.

For a large bust a minimizer may help with comfort and look. Know the exact bra size. Most department stores have professional sizers.

Spanx provides high quality nylon and lycra material and an elastic-free waist band for added comfort.

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